Commander issues winter vehicle safety policy Published Oct. 22, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Rachel Martinez 35th Fighter Wing public affairs MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Col. T.J. O'Shaughnessy, 35th Fighter Wing commander, issued his policy for winter vehicle safety Oct. 16. In his policy letter, he directed the use of traction devices on all motor vehicles registered on Misawa Air Base effective Nov. 15 to March 31. Traction devices consist of four snow tires, four all weather tires, or chains on the drive wheels. In addition, the policy suspends motorcycle use by SOFA status personnel from Nov. 15 to March 31, weather pending. Personnel on leave, TDY or deployed to areas not having riding restrictions may operate motorcycles at those locations as long as they have met all motorcycle training and licensing requirements. The use of bicycles, in-line skates, skateboards and push scooters are left at personal discretion, with a reminder to use sound risk management. The 35th FW safety office offered the following additional tips on winter driving safety: - Make sure tires have sufficient tread - Buy a sturdy ice scraper/snow brush - Check your battery, spare tire, windshield washer reservoir and wiper blades - Warm-up your vehicle for a couple of minutes before driving it. Use that time to clean all the snow and ice off of your windows, mirrors and the rest of your vehicle. - Consider having an emergency kit in your car with some high energy food, blankets, jumper cables, Japanese phrase book, matches and a shovel "Be ready for the changing conditions as autumn rolls into winter," said Master Sgt. Kenneth Holloway, 35th FW ground safety manager. "Drivers need to increase all their distances and drive according to conditions. Just because the sign says 50 doesn't mean you should be going 50. If conditions dictate you drive slower, then drive slower." Driving safety isn't the only thing to keep in mind this winter. There are things you can do around the house to help stay safe. First and foremost, don't wait until it snows to get a sturdy snow shovel, said Sergeant Holloway. Store outdoor items away from overhangs where snow and ice may build up. "If you are using an ice pole to knock icicles down be careful," Sergeant Holloway said. "Falling ice can kill. Many roofs accumulate large amounts of snow and ice. This may fall at anytime. We all have to watch out for it." Wearing the proper footwear can also contribute to safety this winter. Smooth soled shoes and/or heels do not mix well with snow, said Sergeant Holloway. Many people slip when entering or exiting vehicles - be careful. While at work, many facilities will have ice melt in a bucket at the door. "If you encounter ice at a facility entrance/exit, throw some ice melt down," said Sergeant Holloway. "You don't need to wait for the building custodian to do it." Lastly, when participating in winter sports, be sure to have the proper equipment. "Take a course or get some kind of training in sports you're new to," Sergeant Holloway said. "Outdoor recreation has some great programs and useful information." For additional safety information, contact the 35th FW safety office at 226-2702.